WPAFB Fire Prevention Office Grilling safety Photo Details / Download Hi-Res WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio -- There’s nothing like outdoor grilling. It’s one of the most popular ways to cook food.

lose to anything that can burn is a fire hazard. They can be very hot, causing burn injuries.

Follow these simple tips and you’ll be on the way to safe grilling this Memorial Day weekend and all summer:

Propane and charcoal barbecue grills should only be used outdoors.

The grill should be placed well away from the home, deck railings, and eaves or overhanging branches.

Keep children and pets at least 3 feet away from the grill area.

Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the surface and in trays below.

Never leave your grill unattended.

Always make sure your gas grill lid is open before lighting it.

There are several ways to get the charcoal ready to use. Charcoal-chimney starters allow you to start it using newspaper as a fuel.

Use only charcoal starter fluid. Never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire.

Keep charcoal fluid out of children’s reach and away from heat sources.

There are also electric charcoal starters, which do not use fire. Be sure to use an extension cord for outdoor use.

When you’re finished grilling, let the coals completely cool before disposing in a metal container.

Check the gas tank hose for leaks before using a propane grill for the first time each year. Apply a light soap and water solution to the hose. A propane leak will release bubbles.

If your grill has a leak, by smell or the soapy bubble test, and there is no flame, turn off both the gas tank and grill. If the leak stops, get the grill serviced by a professional before using it again. If the leak does not stop, call the Fire Department.

If you smell gas while cooking, immediately get away from the grill and call the Fire Department. Do not move it.

If the flame goes out, turn the grill and gas off and wait at least five minutes before relighting it.

Learn more about fire, electrical and related hazards through the National Fire Protection Association at www.nfpa.org/education.

If you have questions, contact Wright-Patterson Air Force Base’s Fire Prevention Office at 937-257-4075 or 88.ABW.CEFP.MBR@us.af.mil.